Fatigue

Fatigue

Fatigue is the most common symptom experienced by people with cancer who are receiving cancer treatment. You may feel tired at certain times of day, tired all the time, or too tired to participate in activities of daily living and self-care. You may be tired from your cancer, tired from the effects of treatment or both.

Fatigue is caused by cancerous tumors, low blood counts, poor nutrition, cell death and repair due to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, mental exhaustion, worry, stress, pain, spending too much time in bed and medications used for treatment or comfort.

Treatments

Diet and Exercise

Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can interfere with the sleep cycle

Engage in moderate exercise (e.g., a daily walk down the street) to boost energy

Drink a lot of water to help prevent dehydration, which can increase fatigue

Environment

Practice good sleep hygiene. Go to bed in a darkened room at the same time each night.